perceptive

adjective

per·​cep·​tive pər-ˈsep-tiv 

1

: responsive to sensory stimuli : discerning

a perceptive eye

2

a

: capable of or exhibiting keen perception : observant

a perceptive scholar

b

: characterized by sympathetic understanding or insight

perceptively adverb

perceptiveness noun

perceptivity

(ˌ)pər-ˌsep-ˈti-və-tē 

noun

Synonyms

• acute
• delicate
• fine
• keen
• quick
• sensitive
• sharp

Examples of perceptive in a Sentence

He is a very perceptive young man.

due to their ability to rotate their ears, cats are very perceptive when it comes to pinpointing the source of a sound

Recent Examples on the Web

There's no direct evidence that cats can tell when someone is pregnant, but there is plenty to suggest our feline friends are perceptive enough to know when change is afoot. —David Faris, Newsweek, 17 Mar. 2025

Founder and principal Jessica Lagrange is known for her vibrant and personable manner, perceptive insights, and collaborative approach to design—qualities that account for the outstanding caliber and cohesive nature of the JLI team. —Dan Howarth, Architectural Digest, 17 Mar. 2025

The perceptive actress plays someone whose grief has stunted her desire to pursue a career in the arts. —Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 11 Mar. 2025

Ryan first encountered Kahane during their work together at the BBC in London in 2014, and was struck by the composer’s intellectual depth and perceptive social commentary. —Amy Carleton, Charlotte Observer, 11 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for perceptive

• deceptive
• receptive
• contraceptive
• nociceptive
• proprioceptive

Kids Definition

perceptive

adjective

per·​cep·​tive pər-ˈsep-tiv 

: capable of or showing a keen ability to observe and understand

Medical Definition

perceptive

adjective

per·​cep·​tive pər-ˈsep-tiv 

: responsive to sensory stimulus

a perceptive eye

perceptively adverb

perceptiveness noun

perceptivity

(ˌ)pər-ˌsep-ˈtiv-ət-ē 

noun

plural perceptivities